A new mathematical model suggests that easing lockdown must be accompanied by wider and more effective use of control measures like facemasks to suppress COVID-19. The model shows that non-spatial control measures can limit virus particle spread between people.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateMar 30, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
Researchers found that CD8+ T cells in recovered COVID-19 patients can recognize virtually all mutations in recent SARS-CoV-2 variants, offering protection against emerging strains. This suggests that vaccination may still be effective against new variants, and booster vaccinations may be needed to maintain immunity.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·JournalOpen Forum Infectious Diseases·DateMar 30, 2021
The UCLA-led PREVENT project will enroll 10,000 health care personnel at 16 medical centers to study the effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines among vaccinated and non-vaccinated workers. The results will help determine how effective vaccines are at preventing infection.
SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·DateMar 29, 2021
Researchers found a correlation between Henry Ford's universal mask policy and a significant drop in the rate of healthcare workers testing positive for SARS-CoV-2. The study suggests that mask-wearing is effective in reducing the risk of acquiring COVID-19, supporting the institution's decision to implement the policy.
SourceHenry Ford Health·JournalJournal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine·DateMar 26, 2021
A large study found that COVID vaccines produce high levels of antibodies in pregnant women, which can be passed to newborns through breastmilk and the placenta. The study also showed that lactating women receive a similar immune response, providing benefits for both mothers and infants.
A recent study found that about half of Americans intend to get vaccinated as soon as possible, while others are hesitant or unlikely to get vaccinated. The survey highlights the need for targeted outreach to address vaccine hesitancy and build trust with communities, particularly among African American and Hispanic respondents.
SourceJohns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health·JournalVaccine·DateMar 24, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
A study by the University of Birmingham suggests that prioritizing COVID-19 vaccination for surgical patients can prevent thousands of post-operative deaths. Vaccination is estimated to reduce COVID-19-related deaths among high-risk patients, such as those undergoing cancer surgery.
A study by researchers at the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that news coverage of expert scientific evidence on vaccine safety increases public acceptance of vaccines. In contrast, personal narratives about real side effects diminish the positive effect of such messages. The experiment tested six video clips featuring experts an...
SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 24, 2021
A survey of Geisinger employees showed increasing acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines after vaccine availability announcements, public events, and news coverage. 55.3% of employees indicated they intended to receive a vaccine, with most citing safety concerns as the main reason for hesitation.
SourceGeisinger Health System·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 24, 2021
A recent study by Johns Hopkins Medicine has found that COVID-19 vaccines may not produce sufficient antibody response in people who have received solid organ transplants and are immunocompromised. Only 17% of participants developed detectable antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus after receiving their first dose of the vaccine.
A recent study of vaccinated healthcare workers found a low overall positivity rate among fully immunized individuals, supporting high protection rates of COVID-19 vaccines. However, the authors noted an elevated risk of infection after vaccination, possibly due to differences in demographics and behaviors.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 23, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.
A survey of healthcare workers in a health system assessed their intentions to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and explored reasons for hesitancy. The study found that many workers were hesitant due to concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy, as well as perceived risks to vulnerable populations.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateMar 23, 2021
Vaccinating healthcare workers reduced positive COVID-19 cases by over 90%, with infection rates lowest among fully vaccinated employees, according to data from UT Southwestern Medical Center. The institution saw a significant reduction in required isolations and quarantines.
SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 23, 2021
A partnership between Loma Linda University and local churches has successfully vaccinated over 400 people in the predominantly Black community of San Bernardino County. The initiative, which included mobile vaccine clinics in church parking lots, resulted in an increase of 3.6% in Black attendance at mass vaccination clinics.
SourceLoma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center·JournalThe Lancet Global Health·DateMar 23, 2021
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University found the Pfizer vaccine to be moderately less effective against the South African variant, while still providing protection against the British variant and the original strain. The study was published in Cell Host and Microbe and suggests that future variants may require a modified vaccine.
SourceAmerican Associates, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalCell Host & Microbe·DateMar 23, 2021
A study by McGill University researchers found that delaying second COVID-19 vaccine doses can have benefits, but effects depend on population immunity. Increasing vaccination rates or changing dosing regimes can mitigate longer-term epidemiological effects.
A University of New Mexico study analyzed data from four US cities and found that as vaccination rates increase, it becomes economically advantageous to relax social distancing measures and open businesses. The study suggests a gradual relaxation of restrictions can minimize economic costs while reducing public health risks.
SourceUniversity of New Mexico·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 22, 2021
The AstraZeneca vaccine demonstrated high vaccine efficacy of 78.9% against symptomatic COVID-19 disease, including severe disease or hospitalization. The vaccine also showed no increased risk of thrombotic events or cerebral venous sinus thrombosis among vaccinated participants.
SourceNIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases·DateMar 22, 2021
A new study found that people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treated with infliximab are less likely to develop antibodies after COVID-19 infection, which may boost susceptibility to reinfection. The study suggests that careful monitoring is needed to ensure patients mount a strong enough antibody response.
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
Researchers found that nudges can reduce socioeconomic disparities by facilitating selection of welfare-enhancing options, particularly for low-SES consumers. The study generalized its findings across multiple types of nudges and decision contexts.
SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateMar 20, 2021
Scientists have discovered a lesser-known site on the pandemic coronavirus that is recognized by COVID-19 infection-fighting antibodies, which potently prevent the virus from infecting cells. These antibodies were found in blood samples from previously infected patients and were as strong as those targeting the receptor-binding domain.
SourceUniversity of Washington School of Medicine/UW Medicine·JournalCell·DateMar 18, 2021
A modelling study suggests that vaccination alone may not prevent the spread of COVID-19 infection in the UK, even with high vaccine uptake and gradual reopening. Gradual easing of measures and high vaccine protection can minimize future waves of infection.
SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Infectious Diseases·DateMar 18, 2021
A study led by McMaster University aims to understand how well vaccination works in residents of long-term care homes and identify factors linked to outbreaks. The research, involving over 2,000 participants, will inform health policy and help keep residents safe and healthy.
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
Asymptomatic and pre-symptomatic transmission poses a significant challenge in controlling the COVID-19 pandemic. Experts warn that relying solely on vaccination is unlikely to be effective in preventing transmission, highlighting the need for robust surveillance measures.
SourceGeorgetown University Medical Center·JournalScience·DateMar 18, 2021
The study found that SARS-CoV-2 underwent little significant genetic change in the first year of the pandemic, suggesting a 'generalist' nature and rapid transmission. This is attributed to human population immunity and lack of containment, allowing the virus to spread quickly.
Researchers found that neutralizing antibodies from COVID-19 vaccines are less effective against new variants, including those from South Africa and Brazil. The study suggests that mutations in the spike protein may contribute to the variants' resistance.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalCell·DateMar 12, 2021
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that HPV vaccination for men and women over 26 years has limited health benefits and is not cost-effective. The study used two mathematical models to simulate HPV infection and cervical cancer, as well as six non-cervical HPV-related cancers and genital warts.
A phase 1 study found that a single dose of Ad26.COV2.S vaccine induced both antibody and cellular immune responses. The vaccine is currently being tested in two phase 3 clinical trials to determine its efficacy against COVID-19.
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
A new study identifies specific job categories that put workers at risk due to close contact with others. Black workers are especially overrepresented in indoor jobs, while Hispanic workers are overrepresented in outdoor high-proximity jobs.
SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMar 11, 2021
A Mayo Clinic study found that vaccinated patients without symptoms had an 80% lower adjusted risk of testing positive for COVID-19 after their last dose. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna messenger RNA vaccines showed efficacy in limiting the spread of COVID-19 among asymptomatic individuals.
SourceMayo Clinic·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateMar 11, 2021
Researchers at Mount Sinai found that a single shot of COVID-19 vaccine can provide immunity to individuals who have previously been infected by the virus. This could help stretch limited vaccine supplies and spare individuals from unnecessary side effects of a second dose.
SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 10, 2021
Early commercial batches of Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine had lower than expected levels of intact mRNA molecules, a finding that raised concerns about the manufacturing process and its impact on vaccine potency. Regulators like the EMA and FDA are unsure of the implications for safety and efficacy.
A new study by Norwegian University of Science and Technology highlights how new technologies can exacerbate existing social health inequalities. Research shows that people with lower education and income have poorer health outcomes, and that wealthier individuals may buy their way to access to life-saving vaccines.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalActa Sociologica·DateMar 10, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
A Princeton University and McGill University study found that delaying second COVID-19 vaccine doses reduces case numbers in the short term. However, longer-term case burden and potential viral escape from immunity may depend on the strength and duration of immune responses generated by natural infections or one to two vaccine doses.
SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateMar 9, 2021
A study using real-world data from employees at Mass General Brigham found that the incidence of anaphylaxis was higher than CDC estimates, but still extremely low. The majority of cases recovered without serious complications.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJAMA·DateMar 9, 2021
A new modeling study examines the impact of one versus two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine on infections and immune escape. The study finds that while one-dose strategies may reduce short-term infections, weak immunity could lead to long-term virus replication and mutation.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 9, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
A new poll by Michigan Medicine shows a significant increase in COVID-19 vaccination enthusiasm among older adults with high risk of severe illness. By late January, 71% of people aged 50-70 were ready to get vaccinated, up from 58%, while those in fair or poor health saw an 11-point jump in likelihood.
SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·DateMar 9, 2021
A recent study predicts that COVID-19 variants from the UK and South Africa may reduce vaccine effectiveness and increase the likelihood of reinfections. The study found that antibodies from Moderna and Pfizer vaccines were less effective against these variants, causing a reduction in protective efficacy.
SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalNature·DateMar 8, 2021
A survey of over 8,000 nursing home and assisted living staff in Indiana found that 45% would take a vaccine as soon as it was available, while an additional 24% said they would take it at some point in the future. Concerns about side effects, health risks, and effectiveness were common reasons for not wanting to receive the vaccine.
SourceRegenstrief Institute·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateMar 8, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
A new study examined COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among a large national sample of sexual and gender minority men and transgender women, finding that medical mistrust, social concern, and race were significantly associated with decreased vaccine acceptance. Healthcare provider recommendations and altruistic attitudes were found to be po...
SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Nursing·JournalVaccines·DateMar 4, 2021
The article proposes reserving Johnson & Johnson vaccines for younger, healthier populations and boosting them with mRNA vaccinations for better efficacy. Boosting people with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection also enhances their immune response.
Delayed injection-site reactions can occur in some patients who received the Moderna mRNA-1273 vaccine, researchers say. Most symptoms clear up after a week, and completion of the second dose should not be discouraged.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateMar 3, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
A new study finds that the emerging SARS-CoV-2 variant in the UK is more transmissible than existing variants, leading to predictions of large COVID-19 resurgences if left uncontrolled. The analysis suggests a higher reproduction number and increased disease severity for the variant.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMar 3, 2021
A $3.5 million study led by uOttawa and Bruyère Research Institute aims to understand how various immunity factors react to COVID-19 and vaccines in long-term care residents. The team will analyze blood samples from over 3,500 residents and 2,500 workers across Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia.
Swollen lymph nodes after COVID-19 vaccination can be managed with proper documentation and follow-up care. Imaging centers should document vaccination information to avoid unnecessary biopsies.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalJournal of the American College of Radiology·DateMar 2, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A survey of 18,000 women in 16 countries found that 69% would receive a COVID-19 vaccine for themselves and vaccinate their children. Vaccine acceptance varied by country, with lower rates in the US and Russia.
SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalEuropean Journal of Epidemiology·DateMar 1, 2021
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have developed a new vaccination strategy to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). In tests in mice, the vaccine administered directly to the bladder effectively cleared bacteria. The study suggests that reprogramming the body's immune response could be key to fighting off UTIs.
SourceDuke University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 1, 2021
Researchers suggest three ways to improve COVID-19 vaccine distribution, prioritizing global health impact and addressing health disparities. By focusing on both direct and indirect health effects, countries can assist each other in vaccine production, distribution, and consumption.
SourceBinghamton University·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateMar 1, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
Researchers propose using human rights principles to allocate COVID-19 vaccines, considering social vulnerability alongside medical risk. An intersectional approach would prioritize those with overlapping vulnerabilities, such as age and economic status.
SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBMJ Global Health·DateFeb 25, 2021
A large-scale peer-reviewed study by the Clalit Research Institute found that the Pfizer vaccine reduces the risk of symptomatic COVID-19 by 94% and severe disease by 92% in fully vaccinated individuals. The study also showed substantial vaccine effectiveness even before completing two doses.
SourceClalit Research Institute·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2021
Expanding vaccine capacity can accelerate completion of widespread immunization and generate substantial global benefits. Investing in additional capacity could save hundreds of dollars per course, dwarfing current prices of $6 to $40.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateFeb 25, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
Researchers at California Institute of Technology have discovered how antibodies recognize and block the Zika virus. The study found that antibodies produced in response to Zika virus are effective against other flaviviruses like dengue type 1, but less effective against West Nile and other types of dengue.
A new study published in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface suggests that reducing individual activity through social distancing is far superior in controlling the dissemination of Sars-CoV-2. The research found that limiting personal mobility through travel restrictions and similar tactics is effective only in the first phases...
SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateFeb 24, 2021
Researchers identified 23 cases of axillary adenopathy after COVID-19 vaccination, with 13% being symptomatic. The study highlights the importance of considering vaccination date and laterality in assessing imaging-detected axillary adenopathy.
SourceAmerican Roentgen Ray Society·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateFeb 24, 2021
Radiologists at Massachusetts General Hospital have developed an approach to manage swollen lymph nodes on mammograms in women who have recently received COVID-19 vaccinations. The approach aims to reduce delays in vaccinations and breast cancer diagnoses while reassuring patients that the swelling is a normal response to vaccination.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Roentgenology·DateFeb 24, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.
As of mid-January, over 60% of long-term care facility residents and staff received their first COVID-19 vaccine dose through the CDC's public-private partnership with CVS, Walgreens, and Managed Health Care Associates. The study highlights a significant increase in vaccination rates among vulnerable populations.
A new study found adults with Down syndrome are roughly three times more likely to die from COVID-19 than the general population. The study's results have implications for preventive and clinical management of COVID-19 patients with Down syndrome, highlighting the need to prioritize individuals with this genetic condition for vaccination.
SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalEClinicalMedicine·DateFeb 22, 2021
A new report highlights disparities in vaccine clinical trials, showing that certain racial/ethnic groups and older people are not adequately represented. The study emphasizes the need for increased diversity and inclusion to ensure equitable representation of all populations, particularly those disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
SourceFred Hutchinson Cancer Center·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 19, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers examined U.S.-based vaccine clinical trials from 2011 to 2020, finding they were underrepresented by racial/ethnic minorities, females, and older adults. The study aimed to address these disparities and improve vaccine inclusion.
SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateFeb 19, 2021
The article reviews immunogenicity profiles of prominent SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in non-human primates and humans. Notably, Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna vaccines have been authorized for use by the FDA following successful human clinical trials.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 19, 2021